Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez has made a bold decision in his bid to regain full fitness during the November international break.
Journalist Gaston Edul has revealed that Martinez has joined the Argentina national team to participate in training sessions as part of his rehabilitation from a long-term injury.
Argentina will face Angola in an international friendly game on November 14.
Martinez will not feature in the game but will train with his fellow countrymen to accelerate his return to the pitch.
The 27-year-old has been sidelined since February, when he suffered a devastating anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury against Crystal Palace.
He returned to team training earlier this month but was not included in the squad that faced Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday.
Despite playing only 16 times under manager Ruben Amorim, Martinez is part of the six-member leadership group.
He is one of the most vocal members of the squad and a fierce character who inspires everyone.
Had Martinez stayed at Carrington, his workload would likely have been light, with many United first-team stars already away on international duty.
By joining Argentina, he ensures access to a full training setup that will allow him to push himself harder and rebuild match intensity in a competitive environment.
However, the club will be hoping the gamble does not backfire and cause a setback in his recovery.
Amorim will be desperate to have his defensive warrior back in action when Everton visit Old Trafford on November 25.
If Martinez can stay fit, his return could be a turning point for United’s defence heading into the second half of the season.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com